Potential Mechanisms Underlying COVID-19-Mediated Central and Peripheral Demyelination: Roles of the RAAS and ADAM-17.

Demyelination is among the most conspicuous neurological sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) in both the central (CNS) and peripheral (PNS) nervous systems. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain the mechanisms underlying demyelination in COVID-19. However, none have considered the SARS-CoV-2's effects on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Therefore, our objective in this review is to evaluate how RAAS imbalance, caused by direct and indirect effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection, could contribute to myelin loss in the PNS and CNS. In the PNS, we propose that demyelination transpires from two significant changes induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection, which include upregulation of ADAM-17 and induction of lymphopenia. Whereas, in the CNS, demyelination could result from RAAS imbalance triggering two alterations: (1) a decrease in angiotensin type II receptor (AT2R) activity, responsible for restraining defense cells' action on myelin; (2) upregulation of ADAM-17 activity, leading to impaired maturation of oligodendrocytes and myelin formation. Thus, we hypothesize that increased ADAM-17 activity and decreased AT2R activity play roles in SARS-CoV-2 infection-mediated demyelination in the CNS.

Peripheral nervous system is injured by neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) elicited by nonstructural (NS) protein-1 from Zika virus.

The involvement of innate immune mediators to the Zika virus (ZIKV)-induced neuroinflammation is not yet well known. Here, we investigated whether neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which are scaffolds of DNA associated with proteins, have the potential to injure peripheral nervous. The tissue lesions were evaluated after adding NETs to dorsal root ganglia (DRG) explants and to DRG constituent cells or injecting them into mouse sciatic nerves. Identification of NET harmful components was achieved by pharmacological inhibition of NET constituents. We found that ZIKV inoculation into sciatic nerves recruited neutrophils and elicited the production of the cytokines CXCL1 and IL-1ß, classical NET inducers, but did not trigger NET formation. ZIKV blocked PMA- and CXCL8-induced NET release, but, in contrast, the ZIKV nonstructural protein (NS)-1 induced NET formation. NET-enriched supernatants were toxic to DRG explants, decreasing neurite area, length, and arborization. NETs were toxic to DRG constituent cells and affected myelinating cells. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) and histones were identified as the harmful component of NETs. NS1 injection into mouse sciatic nerves recruited neutrophils and triggered NET release and caspase-3 activation, events that were also elicited by the injection of purified MPO. In summary, we found that ZIKV NS1 protein induces NET formation, which causes nervous tissue damages. Our findings reveal new mechanisms leading to neuroinflammation by ZIKV.

The Role and Mechanism of Aspirin Combined with Rehabilitation Training in the Repair of Sciatic Nerve Injury and the Changes in the Schwannocytus (Schwann Cells) in Rats / Rol y Mecanismo de la Aspirina Combinados con Entrenamiento de Rehabilitación en la Reparación de la Lesión del Nervio Ciático y los Cambios en los Schwannocitos (Células de Schwann) en Ratas

SUMMARY: This study investigated the role and mechanism of aspirin combined with rehabilitation training in the nerve injury repair and Schwann cell changes in rats with sciatic nerve injury. Totally, 120 male healthy SD rats were randomly divided into sham, model, aspirin, and aspirin + rehabilitation groups, with 30 rats in each group. The sciatic nerve function index (SFI), photothermal pain tolerance threshold and inclined plane test results at 4, 6, and 8 weeks after operation were compared. The distance of sensory nerve regeneration and the expression of S100B protein in Schwann cells were analyzed. Compared with the sham group, the SFI of the model, aspirin, and aspirin+rehabilitation groups were significantly lower at 4, 6, and 8 weeks after operation. However, the aspirin and aspirin+rehabilitation groups had significantly higher SFI than the model group. The SFI at 6 and 8 weeks after operation was higher in the aspirin+rehabilitation group than that in the aspirin group (P<0.05). The photothermal pain tolerance threshold of the sham, aspirin, and aspirin+rehabilitation groups were significantly higher than those of the model group at 4, 6, and 8 weeks after operation (P<0.05). The inclination angles of the model, aspirin, and aspirin+rehabilitation groups were significantly lower than those of the sham group at 4, 6, and 8 weeks after operation, and the inclination angle of the aspirin+rehabilitation group was significantly higher than that of the model and aspirin groups (P<0.05). The sensory nerve regeneration distance in aspirin and aspirin+rehabilitation groups was higher than that in the sham and model groups (P<0.05). The expression of S100B protein in the aspirin and aspirin+rehabilitation groups was higher than that in the model group (P<0.05). Aspirin combined with rehabilitation training can promote the functional recovery of sciatic nerve injury, and the mechanism may be related to the increase of the expression of S100B protein in Schwann cells.

En este estudio se investigó el papel y el mecanismo que desempeña la aspirina combinada, con el entrenamiento de rehabilitación en la reparación de lesiones nerviosas y los cambios en los schwannocitos en ratas con lesiones en el nervio ciático. En total, 120 ratas SD macho sanas se dividieron aleatoriamente en cuatro grupos de 30 ratas en cada uno: simulación, modelo, aspirina y aspirina + rehabilitación. Se compararon el índice de función del nervio ciático (SFI), el umbral de tolerancia al dolor fototérmico y los resultados de la prueba del plano inclinado a las 4, 6 y 8 semanas después de la operación. Se analizó la distancia de regeneración del nervio sensorial y la expresión de la proteína S100B en los schwannocitos. En comparación con el grupo simulado, el SFI de los grupos modelo, aspirina y aspirina+rehabilitación fue significativamente menor a las 4, 6 y 8 semanas después de la operación. Sin embargo, los grupos de aspirina y aspirina + rehabilitación tuvieron un SFI significativamente más alto que el grupo modelo. El SFI a las 6 y 8 semanas después de la operación fue mayor en el grupo de aspirina + rehabilitación que en el grupo de aspirina (P<0,05). El umbral de tolerancia al dolor fototérmico de los grupos simulado, aspirina y aspirina+rehabilitación fue significativamente mayor que el del grupo modelo a las 4, 6 y 8 semanas después de la operación (P<0,05). Los ángulos de inclinación de los grupos modelo, aspirina y aspirina+rehabilitación fueron significativamente menores que los del grupo simulado a las 4, 6 y 8 semanas después de la operación, y el ángulo de inclinación del grupo aspirina+rehabilitación fue significativamente mayor que el de los grupos modelo y aspirina (P<0.05). La distancia de regeneración del nervio sensorial en los grupos de aspirina y aspirina+rehabilitación fue mayor que en los grupos simulado y modelo (P<0,05). La expresión de la proteína S100B en los grupos de aspirina y aspirina+rehabilitación fue mayor que en el grupo modelo (P<0,05). La aspirina combinada con el entrenamiento de rehabilitación puede promover la recuperación funcional de la lesión del nervio ciático, y el mecanismo puede estar relacionado con el aumento de la expresión de la proteína S100B en los schwannocitos.

Mycobacterium leprae's Infective Capacity Is Associated with Activation of Genes Involved in PGL-I Biosynthesis in a Schwann Cells Infection Model.

Peripheral nerves and Schwann cells (SCs) are privileged and protected sites for initial colonization, survival, and spread of leprosy bacillus. Mycobacterium leprae strains that survive multidrug therapy show a metabolic inactivation that subsequently induces the recurrence of typical clinical manifestations of leprosy. Furthermore, the role of the cell wall phenolic glycolipid I (PGL-I) in the M. leprae internalization in SCs and the pathogenicity of M. leprae have been extensively known. This study assessed the infectivity in SCs of recurrent and non-recurrent M. leprae and their possible correlation with the genes involved in the PGL-I biosynthesis. The initial infectivity of non-recurrent strains in SCs was greater (27%) than a recurrent strain (6.5%). In addition, as the trials progressed, the infectivity of the recurrent and non-recurrent strains increased 2.5- and 2.0-fold, respectively; however, the maximum infectivity was displayed by non-recurrent strains at 12 days post-infection. On the other hand, qRT-PCR experiments showed that the transcription of key genes involved in PGL-I biosynthesis in non-recurrent strains was higher and faster (Day 3) than observed in the recurrent strain (Day 7). Thus, the results indicate that the capacity of PGL-I production is diminished in the recurrent strain, possibly affecting the infective capacity of these strains previously subjected to multidrug therapy. The present work opens the need to address more extensive and in-depth studies of the analysis of markers in the clinical isolates that indicate a possible future recurrence.

Functional regeneration of the murine neuromuscular synapse relies on long-lasting morphological adaptations.

BACKGROUND: In a broad variety of species, muscle contraction is controlled at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), the peripheral synapse composed of a motor nerve terminal, a muscle specialization, and non-myelinating terminal Schwann cells. While peripheral nerve damage leads to successful NMJ reinnervation in animal models, muscle fiber reinnervation in human patients is largely inefficient. Interestingly, some hallmarks of NMJ denervation and early reinnervation in murine species, such as fragmentation and poly-innervation, are also phenotypes of aged NMJs or even of unaltered conditions in other species, including humans. We have reasoned that rather than features of NMJ decline, such cellular responses could represent synaptic adaptations to accomplish proper functional recovery. Here, we have experimentally tackled this idea through a detailed comparative study of the short- and long-term consequences of irreversible (chronic) and reversible (partial) NMJ denervation in the convenient cranial levator auris longus muscle. RESULTS: Our findings reveal that irreversible muscle denervation results in highly fragmented postsynaptic domains and marked ectopic acetylcholine receptor clustering along with significant terminal Schwann cells sprouting and progressive detachment from the NMJ. Remarkably, even though reversible nerve damage led to complete reinnervation after 11 days, we found that more than 30% of NMJs are poly-innervated and around 65% of postsynaptic domains are fragmented even 3 months after injury, whereas synaptic transmission is fully recovered two months after nerve injury. While postsynaptic stability was irreversibly decreased after chronic denervation, this parameter was only transiently affected by partial NMJ denervation. In addition, we found that a combination of morphometric analyses and postsynaptic stability determinations allows discriminating two distinct forms of NMJ fragmentation, stable-smooth and unstable-blurred, which correlate with their regeneration potential. CONCLUSIONS: Together, our data unveil that reversible nerve damage imprints a long-lasting reminiscence in the NMJ that results in the rearrangement of its cellular components. Instead of being predictive of NMJ decline, these traits may represent an efficient adaptive response for proper functional recovery. As such, these features are relevant targets to be considered in strategies aimed to restore motor function in detrimental conditions for peripheral innervation.

Colocalization Analysis of Peripheral Myelin Protein-22 and Lamin-B1 in the Schwann Cell Nuclei of Wt and TrJ Mice.

Myelination of the peripheral nervous system requires Schwann cells (SC) differentiation into the myelinating phenotype. The peripheral myelin protein-22 (PMP22) is an integral membrane glycoprotein, expressed in SC. It was initially described as a growth arrest-specific (gas3) gene product, up-regulated by serum starvation. PMP22 mutations were pathognomonic for human hereditary peripheral neuropathies, including the Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). Trembler-J (TrJ) is a heterozygous mouse model carrying the same pmp22 point mutation as a CMT1E variant. Mutations in lamina genes have been related to a type of peripheral (CMT2B1) or central (autosomal dominant leukodystrophy) neuropathy. We explore the presence of PMP22 and Lamin B1 in Wt and TrJ SC nuclei of sciatic nerves and the colocalization of PMP22 concerning the silent heterochromatin (HC: DAPI-dark counterstaining), the transcriptionally active euchromatin (EC), and the nuclear lamina (H3K4m3 and Lamin B1 immunostaining, respectively). The results revealed that the number of TrJ SC nuclei in sciatic nerves was greater, and the SC volumes were smaller than those of Wt. The myelin protein PMP22 and Lamin B1 were detected in Wt and TrJ SC nuclei and predominantly in peripheral nuclear regions. The level of PMP22 was higher, and those of Lamin B1 lower in TrJ than in Wt mice. The level of PMP22 was higher, and those of Lamin B1 lower in TrJ than in Wt mice. PMP22 colocalized more with Lamin B1 and with the transcriptionally competent EC, than the silent HC with differences between Wt and TrJ genotypes. The results are discussed regarding the probable nuclear role of PMP22 and the relationship with TrJ neuropathy.

Four Seasons for Schwann Cell Biology, Revisiting Key Periods: Development, Homeostasis, Repair, and Aging.

Like the seasons of the year, all natural things happen in stages, going through adaptations when challenged, and Schwann cells are a great example of that. During maturation, these cells regulate several steps in peripheral nervous system development. The Spring of the cell means the rise and bloom through organized stages defined by time-dependent regulation of factors and microenvironmental influences. Once matured, the Summer of the cell begins: a high energy stage focused on maintaining adult homeostasis. The Schwann cell provides many neuron-glia communications resulting in the maintenance of synapses. In the peripheral nervous system, Schwann cells are pivotal after injuries, balancing degeneration and regeneration, similarly to when Autumn comes. Their ability to acquire a repair phenotype brings the potential to reconnect axons to targets and regain function. Finally, Schwann cells age, not only by growing old, but also by imposed environmental cues, like loss of function induced by pathologies. The Winter of the cell presents as reduced activity, especially regarding their role in repair; this reflects on the regenerative potential of older/less healthy individuals. This review gathers essential information about Schwann cells in different stages, summarizing important participation of this intriguing cell in many functions throughout its lifetime.

Mucosal Schwann cell hamartoma of the gallbladder.

Mucosal Schwann cell hamartoma (MSCH) is a rare benign neurogenic tumor characterized by pure S100p positive spindle cell proliferation. Most cases occur in the distal colon. Involvement of the gall bladder is exceedingly rare. There have been no reports of recurrence or a syndromic association with MSCH. Herein, we describe a case of MSCH of the gallbladder in a 55-year-old female patient with prior history of gastrointestinal neurofibromas who presented with abdominal pain. MR imaging revealed choledocholithiasis, gallbladder thickening, and marked biliary and pancreatic ductal dilation. The patient subsequently underwent cholecystectomy with choledochoduodenostomy. Histologic evaluation of the gallbladder showed diffuse expansion of the mucosa with S100p positive cells with spindly nuclei and indistinct cytoplasmic borders and diagnosis of MSCH of the gallbladder was rendered.

Current Advances in Comprehending Dynamics of Regenerating Axons and Axon-Glia Interactions after Peripheral Nerve Injury in Zebrafish.

Following an injury, axons of both the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) degenerate through a coordinated and genetically conserved mechanism known as Wallerian degeneration (WD). Unlike central axons, severed peripheral axons have a higher capacity to regenerate and reinnervate their original targets, mainly because of the favorable environment that they inhabit and the presence of different cell types. Even though many aspects of regeneration in peripheral nerves have been studied, there is still a lack of understanding regarding the dynamics of axonal degeneration and regeneration, mostly due to the inherent limitations of most animal models. In this scenario, the use of zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae combined with time-lapse microscopy currently offers a unique experimental opportunity to monitor the dynamics of the regenerative process in the PNS in vivo. This review summarizes the current knowledge and advances made in understanding the dynamics of the regenerative process of PNS axons. By using different tools available in zebrafish such as electroablation of the posterior lateral line nerve (pLLn), and laser-mediated transection of motor and sensory axons followed by time-lapse microscopy, researchers are beginning to unravel the complexity of the spatiotemporal interactions among different cell types during the regenerative process. Thus, understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the degeneration and regeneration of peripheral nerves will open new avenues in the treatment of acute nerve trauma or chronic conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases.

Tumor de células granulares pulmonar em um equino / Pulmonar granular cell tumor in a horse

Background: The occurrence of neoplasms in horses is relatively low. Granular cell tumor is a seldom diagnosed neoplasm, usually benign, of mesenchymal origin. Controversies exist regarding its origin, which is possibly from Schwann cells or cells with neuroendocrine differentiation. Despite being one of the main primary neoplasms in the lungs of horses, the number of cases is low in comparison to that of secondary lung tumors. Thus, this study proposes to report the anatomopathological aspects in a horse with granular cell tumor of primary pulmonary origin. Case: An 11-year-old female Quarter Horse breed underwent exploratory right lateral thoracotomy after presenting with chronic respiratory changes. During the operation, tumor masses were found in the right and left caudal pulmonary lobes. Due to the severity of clinical respiratory signs and the extent of the lesions, the animal was subjected to euthanasia and anatomopathological examination. Upon necroscopic examination, a tumor mass was found in the middle third of the left caudal lobe, rounded to flattened, measuring 10.0 × 8.0 cm in height and length, white in color, of firm consistency, smooth and regular surface and rising to the lung surface. When sectioned, the mass showed to be composed of multiple firm and dense circular lobes, separated by a thin layer of connective tissue. The tumor invaded the lumen of nearby segmental and subsegmental bronchi, which were partially or totally obstructed by the mass. In the right lung, multiple similar nodules were observed, accompanied by peritumoral hemorrhage. Histopathological analysis of the new formation revealed a dense cluster of cells that expanded over the lung parenchyma. The neoplastic cells were pleomorphic, moderately cohesive, without defined borders, with abundant cytoplasm, densely eosinophilic and finely granular. Intracytoplasmic granules were well evidenced by periodic acid Schiff staining (PAS). The cell nucleus was rounded to oval, excentric, markedly basophilic and with dense chromatin. There was moderate anisocytosis and mild anisokaryosis, with rare mitotic figures. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed positive staining for anti-vimentin and anti-S100 antibodies, confirming the diagnosis of granular cell tumor. Discussion: Granular cell tumors have no predisposition as to breed, sex or age. However, most of the described cases are reported in female horses aged around 13 years. The advanced age of the diagnosed animals may be related to late definitive diagnosis, since the clinical signs are nonspecific and treated palliatively like other respiratory diseases. Macroscopically, this tumor is more common in the multinodular form and, as observed in this case, it has a greater capacity for infiltration. Histologically, the visualization of large, polygonal cells, with a wide cytoplasm containing eosinophilic granules leads to the diagnosis of granular cell tumor. However, PAS staining and immunohistochemical tests were essential for the diagnostic conclusion in this report, confirming the presence of cytoplasmic granules and the mesenchymal and neuroectodermal origin of this neoplasm, respectively. Thus, considering the low occurrence of pulmonary granular cell tumor, the description of this case contributes to the basis of the knowledge of medical-veterinary professionals about this tumor in its clinical and diagnostic aspects.

Mucosal Schwann cell hamartoma of the gallbladder

Mucosal Schwann cell hamartoma (MSCH) is a rare benign neurogenic tumor characterized by pure S100p positive spindle cell proliferation. Most cases occur in the distal colon. Involvement of the gall bladder is exceedingly rare. There have been no reports of recurrence or a syndromic association with MSCH. Herein, we describe a case of MSCH of the gallbladder in a 55-year-old female patient with prior history of gastrointestinal neurofibromas who presented with abdominal pain. MR imaging revealed choledocholithiasis, gallbladder thickening, and marked biliary and pancreatic ductal dilation. The patient subsequently underwent cholecystectomy with choledochoduodenostomy. Histologic evaluation of the gallbladder showed diffuse expansion of the mucosa with S100p positive cells with spindly nuclei and indistinct cytoplasmic borders and diagnosis of MSCH of the gallbladder was rendered.

Granular cell tumor of the breast: correlations between imaging and pathology findings.

OBJECTIVE: To review the imaging features of granular cell tumors of the breast (on mammography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging), establishing a pathological correlation, in order to familiarize radiologists with this entity and make them aware of the differential diagnoses, other than malignancy, of lesions with spiculated margins. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed the medical records (from a clinical-pathology database and picture archiving and communication system) of five patients with a pathologically confirmed diagnosis of granular cell tumor of the breast, treated at the Portuguese Oncology Institute of Lisbon, in the city of Lisbon, Portugal, between January 2012 and December 2018. RESULTS: All five tumors exhibited imaging features highly suggestive of malignancy (BI-RADS 5 lesions), namely spiculated margins, significant depth, and posterior acoustic shadowing (on ultrasound). One tumor showed a kinetic curve indicative of washout on magnetic resonance imaging, two were adherent to the pectoralis muscle, and one was accompanied by skin retraction. Pathology provided the definitive diagnosis in all cases. CONCLUSION: Granular cell tumors of the breast pose a diagnostic challenge because they can present with clinical and imaging features mimicking malignancy, and the diagnosis is therefore provided by pathology. Radiologists should be familiarized with this entity, so they can be aware of the fact that breast lesions with spiculated margins can be indicative of diagnoses other than malignancy.

OBJETIVO: Rever as características de imagem dos tumores de células granulares da mama (mamográficas, ultrassonográficas e de ressonância magnética), estabelecendo uma correlação anatomopatológica, no intuito de proporcionar aos radiologistas uma familiarização com esta entidade e alertar para outros diagnósticos diferenciais de lesões espiculadas além das malignas. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Consulta dos processos clínicos (base de dados clínica, anatomopatológica e sistema de comunicação e arquivamento de imagens) de doentes seguidos no Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa, com diagnóstico anatomopatológico confirmado de tumor de células granulares da mama, de janeiro de 2012 a dezembro de 2018. RESULTADOS: Todos os tumores exibiram características de imagem altamente sugestivas de malignidade (BI-RADS 5), nomeadamente espiculações, crescimento em profundidade e atenuação posterior (ultrassonografia), um mostrou um perfil cinético com washout na ressonância magnética, dois estavam aderentes ao músculo peitoral e um associava retração cutânea. O diagnóstico definitivo foi anatomopatológico. CONCLUSÃO: Os tumores de células granulares da mama constituem um desafio diagnóstico, pois podem apresentar características clínicas e de imagem que mimetizam malignidade, pelo que o diagnóstico é anatomopatológico. Os radiologistas devem estar familiarizados com esta entidade de forma a considerá-la nos diagnósticos diferenciais de lesões espiculadas, além das lesões malignas.

Granular cell tumor of the breast: correlations between imaging and pathology findings / Tumor de células granulares da mama: correlação anatomorradiológica

Abstract Objective: To review the imaging features of granular cell tumors of the breast (on mammography, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging), establishing a pathological correlation, in order to familiarize radiologists with this entity and make them aware of the differential diagnoses, other than malignancy, of lesions with spiculated margins. Materials and Methods: We reviewed the medical records (from a clinical-pathology database and picture archiving and communication system) of five patients with a pathologically confirmed diagnosis of granular cell tumor of the breast, treated at the Portuguese Oncology Institute of Lisbon, in the city of Lisbon, Portugal, between January 2012 and December 2018. Results: All five tumors exhibited imaging features highly suggestive of malignancy (BI-RADS 5 lesions), namely spiculated margins, significant depth, and posterior acoustic shadowing (on ultrasound). One tumor showed a kinetic curve indicative of washout on magnetic resonance imaging, two were adherent to the pectoralis muscle, and one was accompanied by skin retraction. Pathology provided the definitive diagnosis in all cases. Conclusion: Granular cell tumors of the breast pose a diagnostic challenge because they can present with clinical and imaging features mimicking malignancy, and the diagnosis is therefore provided by pathology. Radiologists should be familiarized with this entity, so they can be aware of the fact that breast lesions with spiculated margins can be indicative of diagnoses other than malignancy.

Resumo Objetivo: Rever as características de imagem dos tumores de células granulares da mama (mamográficas, ultrassonográficas e de ressonância magnética), estabelecendo uma correlação anatomopatológica, no intuito de proporcionar aos radiologistas uma familiarização com esta entidade e alertar para outros diagnósticos diferenciais de lesões espiculadas além das malignas. Materiais e Métodos: Consulta dos processos clínicos (base de dados clínica, anatomopatológica e sistema de comunicação e arquivamento de imagens) de doentes seguidos no Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa, com diagnóstico anatomopatológico confirmado de tumor de células granulares da mama, de janeiro de 2012 a dezembro de 2018. Resultados: Todos os tumores exibiram características de imagem altamente sugestivas de malignidade (BI-RADS 5), nomeadamente espiculações, crescimento em profundidade e atenuação posterior (ultrassonografia), um mostrou um perfil cinético com washout na ressonância magnética, dois estavam aderentes ao músculo peitoral e um associava retração cutânea. O diagnóstico definitivo foi anatomopatológico. Conclusão: Os tumores de células granulares da mama constituem um desafio diagnóstico, pois podem apresentar características clínicas e de imagem que mimetizam malignidade, pelo que o diagnóstico é anatomopatológico. Os radiologistas devem estar familiarizados com esta entidade de forma a considerá-la nos diagnósticos diferenciais de lesões espiculadas, além das lesões malignas.

Schwann cells orchestrate peripheral nerve inflammation through the expression of CSF1, IL-34, and SCF in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Distal axonopathy is a recognized pathological feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In the peripheral nerves of ALS patients, motor axon loss elicits a Wallerian-like degeneration characterized by denervated Schwann cells (SCs) together with immune cell infiltration. However, the pathogenic significance of denervated SCs accumulating following impaired axonal growth in ALS remains unclear. Here, we analyze SC phenotypes in sciatic nerves of ALS patients and paralytic SOD1G93A rats, and identify remarkably similar and specific reactive SC phenotypes based on the pattern of S100ß, GFAP, isolectin and/or p75NTR immunoreactivity. Different subsets of reactive SCs expressed colony-stimulating factor-1 (CSF1) and Interleukin-34 (IL-34) and closely interacted with numerous endoneurial CSF-1R-expressing monocyte/macrophages, suggesting a paracrine mechanism of myeloid cell expansion and activation. SCs bearing phagocytic phenotypes as well as endoneurial macrophages expressed stem cell factor (SCF), a trophic factor that attracts and activates mast cells through the c-Kit receptor. Notably, a subpopulation of Ki67+ SCs expressed c-Kit in the sciatic nerves of SOD1G93A rats, suggesting a signaling pathway that fuels SC proliferation in ALS. c-Kit+ mast cells were also abundant in the sciatic nerve from ALS donors but not in controls. Pharmacological inhibition of CSF-1R and c-Kit with masitinib in SOD1G93A rats potently reduced SC reactivity and immune cell infiltration in the sciatic nerve and ventral roots, suggesting a mechanism by which the drug ameliorates peripheral nerve pathology. These findings provide strong evidence for a previously unknown inflammatory mechanism triggered by SCs in ALS peripheral nerves that has broad application in developing novel therapies.

Effect of Mycobacterium leprae on neurotrophins expression in human Schwann cells and mouse sciatic nerves

BACKGROUND: Although Mycobacterium leprae (ML) is well characterised as the causative agent of leprosy, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying peripheral nerve damage still need further understanding. In vitro and in vivo studies have yielded insights into molecular mechanisms of ML interaction with Schwann cells (SC), indicating the regulation of genes and proteins crucial to neural plasticity. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the effect of ML on neurotrophins expression in human SC (hSC) and mice sciatic nerves to better understand their role in leprosy neuropathy, and aiming to contribute to future therapeutic approaches. METHODS: We evaluated mRNA and protein expression of BDNF, NGF, NT-3, NT-4 in hSC from amputation nerve fragments, as well as in athymic nude mice, infected by ML for eight months. FINDINGS and MAIN CONCLUSIONS: Our in vitro results showed a trend to decline in NGF and BDNF mRNA in ML-treated hSC, compared to controls. The immunodetection of BDNF and NT-4 was significantly downregulated in ML-treated hSC. Conversely, ML-infected mice demonstrated upregulation of NT-3, compared to non-infected animals. Our findings indicate that ML may be involved in neurotrophins regulation, suggesting that a pathogen-related imbalance of these growth factors may have a role in the neural impairment of leprosy(AU).

Caracterização físico-química e atividade biológica de um cimento dentário à base de quitosana, nanohidroxiapatita, nanopartículas de óxido de zinco para estimulação de células nervosas de Schwann (HS-SCH-2) / Physical-chemical characterization and biological activity of a dental cement based on chitosan, nano-hydroxyapatite, and zinc oxide nanoparticles for Schwann nervous cell stimulation (hs-sch-2)

Os cimentos dentários e ortopédicos são utilizados amplamente em diversas aplicações clínicas. Novos cimentos vêm sendo propostos visando à preservação ou regeneração tecidual. Contudo, pouco se conhece sobre o papel desses biomateriais na regeneração nervosa. As células mais comumente envolvidas na regeneração nervosa são as células de Schwann (SCs) sendo sua principal função o suporte aos axônios através da liberação de fatores de crescimento e isolamento axonal através da formação da bainha de mielina. Como estratégia da presente pesquisa, foi estudado um cimento à base da quitosana com adição de substâncias que podem atuar sinergicamente na resposta celular nervosa, tais como, as nanopartículas (NPs) de hidroxiapatita e o óxido de zinco, visto que têm propriedades bioativas e biocondutoras, além de promoverem a condução de prolongamento axonal. A doxiciclina (Dox) foi acrescida como antimicrobiano, potente inibidora de metaloproteinases (MMPs) e estimuladora da diferenciação celular no processo de regeneração tecidual. Assim, as propriedades físico-químicas e biológicas do cimento de nano-hidroxiapatita, quitosana, óxido de zinco e doxiciclina foram avaliadas, bem como a capacidade de promover um ambiente favorável para as células nervosas periféricas. Os cimentos foram caracterizados físico-químicamente mediante a determinação do pH, tempo de presa e solubilidade, lixiviação de íons cálcio, liberação controlada de doxiciclina, difração de Raios X, Termogravimetria (TG), espectroscopia Raman, molhabibidade, e testes de atividade biológica, para assim também serem avaliados em contato com células nervosas de Schwann (HS-Sch-2). O cimento apresentou pH neutro (7,0), tempo de presa de 5,7 ± 0,22 minutos, solubilidade menor que 3%, lixiviação de cálcio de 8,14 ± 0,71 mg L-1 após 14 dias, estabilidade térmica e a análise espectroscópica ratificou a presença e diferenciação das estruturas químicas dos componentes do cimento coerentemente com as imagens das análises microscópicas. Além disso, o cimento se mostrou hidrofílico, teve efeito hemolítico baixo (17%), obteve alta citocompabilidade celular em fibroblastos ATCC 3T3 (72%) e ação antimicrobiana. O cimento aumentou significativamente o crescimento das células de Schwann, 48,6% a mais do que o grupo controle (p≤0.05), e maior capacidade metabólica na análise mitótica quando em contato com este material (33%). Pode-se concluir que o cimento proposto à base de quitosana contendo hidroxiapatita e óxido de zinco nanoparticulados com adição de doxiciclina obteve efeito bioativo em células de Schwann promovendo, assim, o crescimento e a atividade mitótica celular, sendo então um biomaterial promissor para estudos de remielinização de nervos periféricos e regeneração nervosa in vivo.

Dental and orthopedic cements are used widely in several clinical applications. New cements have been proposed aimed the tissue preservation or regeneration. Nevertheless, nerve regeneration is not well known. The cells most commonly used in nerve regeneration are Schwann cells (SCs) which represent glial cells in the peripheral nervous system, their main function being supporting axons by releasing growth factors and axonal isolation through the formation of the myelin sheath. As a strategy of this research, chitosan-based cement was studied with the addition of substances that can act synergistically in the nervous cell response, such as the hydroxyapatite and zinc oxide nanoparticles (NPs), since they have bioactive and bioconductive properties; in addition to furthermore, they promote the conduction of axonal prolongation. Doxycycline (Dox) was added as an antimicrobial, a potent inhibitor of MMPs, a stimulator of cell differentiation in the tissue regeneration process. Thus, the physical-chemical and biological properties of nanohydroxyapatite, chitosan, zinc oxide and doxycycline cements were evaluated, as well as the ability to promote a favorable environment for peripheral nerve cells. Blocks of cements were characterized physically and chemically by determining pH, setting time and solubility, calcium ions leaching, controlled release of doxycycline, X-ray diffraction, Thermogravimetry (TG), Raman spectroscopy, wetness, and biological activity tests, so they can also be evaluated in contact with Schwann nerve cells (HS-Sch-2). The cement showed neutral pH (7.0), setting time of 5.7 ± 0.22 minutes, solubility less than 3%, calcium leaching of 8.14 ± 0.71 mg L-1 after 14 days, stability thermal and spectroscopic analysis confirmed the presence and differentiation of the chemical structures of the cement components coherently with the images of the microscopic analysis. In addition, the cement was shown to be hydrophilic, had a low hemolytic effect (17%), and obtained high cell cytocompatibility in ATCC 3T3 fibroblasts (72%) and antimicrobial action. The cement significantly increased the growth of Schwann cells, 48.6% more than the control group (p≤0.05), and greater metabolic capacity in the mitotic analysis when in contact with this material (33%). It can be concluded that the proposed chitosan-based cement containing hydroxyapatite and zinc oxide nanoparticulated with the addition of doxycycline has a bioactive effect in Schwann cells, thus promoting cell growth and mitotic activity, thus being a promising biomaterial for studies of remyelinization of peripheral nerves and nerve regeneration in vivo.

Effect of Mycobacterium leprae on neurotrophins expression in human Schwann cells and mouse sciatic nerves

BACKGROUND Although Mycobacterium leprae (ML) is well characterised as the causative agent of leprosy, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying peripheral nerve damage still need further understanding. In vitro and in vivo studies have yielded insights into molecular mechanisms of ML interaction with Schwann cells (SC), indicating the regulation of genes and proteins crucial to neural plasticity. OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate the effect of ML on neurotrophins expression in human SC (hSC) and mice sciatic nerves to better understand their role in leprosy neuropathy, and aiming to contribute to future therapeutic approaches. METHODS We evaluated mRNA and protein expression of BDNF, NGF, NT-3, NT-4 in hSC from amputation nerve fragments, as well as in athymic nude mice, infected by ML for eight months. FINDINGS and MAIN CONCLUSIONS Our in vitro results showed a trend to decline in NGF and BDNF mRNA in ML-treated hSC, compared to controls. The immunodetection of BDNF and NT-4 was significantly downregulated in ML-treated hSC. Conversely, ML-infected mice demonstrated upregulation of NT-3, compared to non-infected animals. Our findings indicate that ML may be involved in neurotrophins regulation, suggesting that a pathogen-related imbalance of these growth factors may have a role in the neural impairment of leprosy.

Pediatric Granular Cell Tumor of the Breast: An uncommon neoplasm in an uncommon site and age group

Granular cell tumor (GCT) is a rare soft tissue neoplasm of Schwann cell origin. Most cases occur in adults; however, the precise incidence is unknown in children. GCT is usually a slow-growing, painless tumor involving the skin and soft tissues that is mostly located in the head and neck region, especially the tongue. The breast is one of the least common sites involved by GCT. This paper presents a 3-year-old girl who presented with a soft to firm, ill-defined swelling on the right breast with painful ulceration of the overlying skin. Fine needle aspiration rendered an initial diagnosis of fibrocystic change accompanied by apocrine metaplasia. Histologic evaluation of the excised breast mass revealed a benign granular cell tumor. Although rare, GCT of the breast should be included in the differential diagnosis for breast masses in pediatric patients. Proper diagnosis and timely management of this tumor are essential because of its malignant potential (<2% of cases) and high rate of local recurrence if not properly excised.

Pediatric Granular Cell Tumor of the Breast: An uncommon neoplasm in an uncommon site and age group.

Granular cell tumor (GCT) is a rare soft tissue neoplasm of Schwann cell origin. Most cases occur in adults; however, the precise incidence is unknown in children. GCT is usually a slow-growing, painless tumor involving the skin and soft tissues that is mostly located in the head and neck region, especially the tongue. The breast is one of the least common sites involved by GCT. This paper presents a 3-year-old girl who presented with a soft to firm, ill-defined swelling on the right breast with painful ulceration of the overlying skin. Fine needle aspiration rendered an initial diagnosis of fibrocystic change accompanied by apocrine metaplasia. Histologic evaluation of the excised breast mass revealed a benign granular cell tumor. Although rare, GCT of the breast should be included in the differential diagnosis for breast masses in pediatric patients. Proper diagnosis and timely management of this tumor are essential because of its malignant potential (<2% of cases) and high rate of local recurrence if not properly excised.

Myelination key factor krox-20 is downregulated in Schwann cells and murine sciatic nerves infected by Mycobacterium leprae.

Schwann cells (SCs) critically maintain the plasticity of the peripheral nervous system. Peripheral nerve injuries and infections stimulate SCs in order to retrieve homeostasis in neural tissues. Previous studies indicate that Mycobacterium leprae (ML) regulates the expression of key factors related to SC identity, suggesting that alterations in cell phenotype may be involved in the pathogenesis of neural damage in leprosy. To better understand whether ML restricts the plasticity of peripheral nerves, the present study sought to determine the expression of Krox-20, Sox-10, c-Jun and p75NTR in SC culture and mice sciatic nerves, both infected by ML Thai-53 strain. Primary SC cultures were stimulated with two different multiplicities of infection (MOI 100:1; MOI 50:1) and assessed after 7 and 14 days. Sciatic nerves of nude mice (NU-Foxn1nu ) infected with ML were evaluated after 6 and 9 months. In vitro results demonstrate downregulation of Krox-20 and Sox-10 along with the increase in p75NTR-immunolabelled cells. Concurrently, sciatic nerves of infected mice showed a significant decrease in Krox-20 and increase in p75NTR. Our results corroborate previous findings on the interference of ML in the expression of factors involved in cell maturation, favouring the maintenance of a non-myelinating phenotype in SCs, with possible implications for the repair of adult peripheral nerves.